Marcella Deptford

"Marcella is a perfect example of a modern neighbourhood Italian. A relation of Peckham's popular Artusi, the Deptford outpost has been serving eager diners since opening in 2018. All the dishes at Marcella are designed for sharing (not compulsory for those who like to guard their own plates of food), so it's an excellent spot for people who want to cover a table in delicious things."

"With the exception of a lone G&T, the Aperitivi/Cocktails menu at Marcella is all Italian (as is the wine list). I began my evening with a strong and instantly mood-boosting Negroni (good value at 8). Meanwhile, my more sensible companion chose the 0% Gin and Tonic from the non-alcoholic list. Made with Lyre's London Dry Spirit, this was tall and cool with a good hit of botanics but lacking the kick of the alcoholic version."

"We selected two of the three starters on the menu, beginning with the House-made ricotta, accompanied by Vesuvio tomatoes, salsa verde, and taggiasca olives. The ricotta was light, fluffy, and smooth, with a texture that was not at all grainy. The salty olives and the sweetness of the tomatoes perfectly offset it. Lots of mint in the salsa added a fresh green taste to the whole dish."

Marcella is a Deptford neighbourhood Italian opened in 2018 and related to Peckham's Artusi. Chefs Jack Beer and Paolo Lancini oversee an inventive, frequently changing menu that uses top local and Italian suppliers. Dishes are designed to be shared, featuring freshly made pasta, seasonal starters, Secondi highlighting excellent meat or fish, and desserts. The Aperitivi/Cocktails and wine list are predominantly Italian. Cocktails include a strong Negroni and a non-alcoholic 0% Gin and Tonic made with Lyre's London Dry Spirit. Starters include house-made ricotta with Vesuvio tomatoes, salsa verde and taggiasca olives, and warm friggitelli peppers with anchovy, aioli and pickled onions.

Read at www.london-unattached.com